Russian Foreign Policy: A Historical Context for Modern Geopolitics

Understanding the historical drivers of Russian foreign policy is essential for interpreting today's complex global landscape and anticipating future strategic moves. This course provides a comprehensive, text-based exploration of Russia's diplomatic and strategic history, equipping you with the foundational knowledge needed to analyze its current relationships with major world powers and neighboring states. What you'll learn: * Understand the foundational concepts and strategic doctrines that have shaped Russian diplomacy since the age of Peter the Great. * Analyze the key historical periods, including Imperial expansion, the Soviet Union's Cold War strategies, and the transition to the Russian Federation. * Examine the evolution of Russia's relationships with major powers in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East across different centuries. * Learn the mechanics of modern Russian foreign policy, focusing on concepts like near abroad, energy diplomacy, and current security frameworks. * Apply historical patterns to interpret recent events, including modern geopolitical conflicts and the role of international organizations. The course begins by establishing the core geopolitical goals and regional influences of the Russian state, progresses through detailed analysis of major historical shifts, and concludes with an examination of modern foreign policy challenges and doctrines. This course is designed for absolute beginners interested in history, international relations, or current affairs. No prior knowledge of Russian history or political science is required. Start building your expertise in global strategy and diplomacy today.